Robert Howard Shepard

Robert Howard Shepard, age 80, passed away Saturday, April 16, 2016 at Grant Medical Center. He was born in Columbus, Ohio on October 2, 1935. He married his high school sweetheart, Carolyn "Jean" (Harding) Shepard, with whom he celebrated 62 years of marriage. Bob was a 32nd degree Mason. He proudly served in the U.S. Air Force and retired after 22 years of service. He owned and operated Bob's Back Hoe Service and was affectionately known as Back Hoe Bob. Bob enjoyed hunting, golfing, and spending time fishing with his great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother, Ethel Shepard. Survived by his loving wife, Carolyn "Jean" Shepard; daughter, Debbie (Steve) Lee; granddaughter, Leigh Ann (Brian) Reppart; great-grandchildren, Kaleigh, Bradin, and Connor Reppart; sisters, Alice Hulbert and Mary Ann Scarberry; brother, Tommy (Bonnie) Shepard; many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. A graveside service will be held 11 am Friday, April 22, 2016 at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens, 5600 E. Broad St. Arrangements entrusted to Schoedinger North Chapel. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Bob's memory to the American Heart Association.